Nabob Costa Rica review part 1 of 3. Espresso

Well to start off on an actual Coffee review.  I have something that intrigued me for the last month or so but never had the incentive to actually try it.  

                                                   NABOB single origin whole bean coffee! 

Here are the basics of this coffee:  

Brand:  NABOB

Name/Blend/Origin:  Costa Rica  S.O. 

Roast level:  "Medium" 

Prep Method:   Espresso 

Equipment Used:  Delonghi ec330 with de pressurized basket,  Grinder: Hario Mini Mill Slim. 

Amount Used:  12.5g 

Pallet Cleanser:  carbonated spring water

        

         Attempt 1

Grinder Setting:  6clicks from closed. 

Shot:  Almoast no crema  grind is too course  must go finer 

Flavor:  Roasty coffee mildly acidic not bright or dark in flavor profile

       Attempt 2:

Grinder Setting:  4 clicks from closed

Shot:  More crema but grind was too fine almost clogged the machine.

Flavor:  More robust more acidic hints of dark ripe fruit. 

    Attempt 3

Grinder Setting: 4 clicks out  

Deviation:  light tamp pressure.

Shot:  OK crema but still too slow 

Flavor:  More acidic than previous  body has thin'd out 

     Attempt 4

Grinder Setting: 5 clicks from closed 

Shot  OK crema  proper shot speed.

Flavor: body is medium acidity was medium also  Cocoa , Coffee And a light citrus tang. 

 

 Thoughts: Nabob has step'd up their game here. This coffee is actually drinkable  it has a significant roasted flavor that would be nice if toned down lightly  but its not burnt by any means.  For a pre roasted coffee  this is acceptable at the pricepoint i payed for it.  A decent fallback coffee so far  lets see how it stands up to pour over and stovetop methods.  

In hindsight it would be a good idea when dialing in the grinder NOT to drink the whole shot  4 Espresso shots in under 30min on an empty stomach  is effing rough on yourself.